A Hollywood bad boy. A small-town florist. A fake romance in a winter wonderland.
After the paparazzi capture his latest crashout, Dash Pine needs a PR miracle. The plan? A staged holiday romance in the picture-perfect town of Mistletoe Mountain. But when his A-list co-star bails at the last minute, he’s left scrambling—until shy florist Ivy Jolly walks in.
Ivy prefers to let her stunning floral arrangements take center stage. But when Dash begs her to pose as his small-town girlfriend for a whirlwind week of holiday dates for the cameras, she reluctantly agrees.
It's just one week. Just pretend. Just one very handsome, very complicated movie star.
From the beginning, their staged kisses under the mistletoe feel all too real and their chemistry is undeniable. Every boundary they set crumbles like a gingersnap. Dash can’t get enough of Ivy’s quiet warmth and open heart. Ivy’s drawn to the vulnerable side of Dash the public never sees.
But when Dash's mother blows into town like a winter storm, she shakes up their perfect snowglobe romance. And when the snowflakes settle, Ivy and Dash will have to decide if their cozy Christmas charade maybe … perhaps … means a whole lot more.
The Christmas Arrangement is a closed-door holiday rom-com full of small-town charm, swoony chemistry, heartwarming surprises, and a dash of mystery.
Melissa F. Miller is a multi-time USA Today bestselling author of mystery, thriller, suspense, and romance novels. Formerly a complex commercial litigator, Melissa graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in medieval literature and creative writing poetry and earned her JD, cum laude, from the Duquesne University School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
this was cute and easy! i had fun being in this little town. this was a very fast paced read and the christmas aspects were so cute.
i will say the romance moved very very fast and they were very serious after only knowing each other for 3 days. i kind of got the ick from our fmc because of the way she acted around the mmcs mother, but other than that i really enjoyed them together and thought they were sweet!
thank you to melissa f miller and hambright for the arc!!
This was such a fun quick holiday read! Dash is a movie star trying to fix his image, Ivy is a florist who loves Christmas. Insert the cutest small-town filled with Christmas cheer, fake dating at it's finest, and you have the cutest Christmas novel. I loved all the festive names and holiday traditions, I can't wait to visit Mistletoe Mountain again! My first Melissa Miller, and for sure not my last. Thank you to Melissa Miller and Hambright PR for the chance to read this novel in exchange for my honest opinion!
Once again, the Christmas spirit comes alive in author Melissa F Miller’s novels! From the beginning, the main characters' names, Dash(er) Pine and Ivy Jolly. And of course, don’t forget the muttering of “son of reindeer”! This story is perfect for curling up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa, the pup, and a blanket and falling in love with everyone on Mistletoe Mountain!
Ivy Jolly’s feelings are so relatable! Spoiler Alert! Her mom’s nickname for her while growing up, sneaky snail, resonated with me. Empaths absorb emotions, positive and negative, of those around them easily. Many times, it’s challenging for them to express those feelings and sentiments, finding it much easier to crawl back into the safety of their own protective shell, rather than try to explain them, for many reasons.
As the story continued, I found myself reflecting about some of the recent developments in my own life this year, specifically as the Jolly family decorated their tree, and then seamlessly flowed into their tradition of sharing with each other. So touching, it was as if the author was able to reach deep into my heart and soul.
Following the example of previous Mistletoe Mountain stories, I would find myself tearing up one moment, yet smiling the next, the author helping to gently guide those deeper emotions. I love the underlying theme shown in her writing style.
Mistletoe Mountain may be a fictitious town, however, the support, kindness and love displayed, whether you were born there or simply arrived on scene, envelopes you throughout the story so by the end, you become family. Highly Recommend!
"Holy sugarplums!" This was such a fun read! It's witty, funny and such a great holiday rom com. I must say thanks to this book certain phrases of my vocabulary will be changed for the holidays 😂
Something about fake dating tropes and holidays!! It's become my favorite this year!
I love the connection Dash and Ivy had early on. The chemistry and build up was just *chefs kiss.*
Dash will have you swooning! Ivy will have you loving her character more and more with each turn of the page. This is a Hallmark story for the books that tugs at your heart strings and doesn't let go! So many awe moments, so much laughter, but it also ran a little deeper. It showcased what a community should be like and takes you on a journey of personal growth. Standing up for how you feel and being heard. I absolutely loved this story ♥️ I haven't read the other two but I will definitely be doing so soon!
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the gifted ARC!
The Christmas Arrangement is a sweet, wintery escape full of small-town charm, warm family vibes, and the kind of festive cheer that makes you want to curl up with a mug of hot cocoa. Melissa F. Miller delivers a cozy, heartwarming romance with just enough emotional depth to keep you invested without ever weighing down the holiday magic.
I really enjoyed the setup of the arrangement itself—there’s something fun about watching two people try to navigate a “simple” plan during the busiest, most sentimental season of the year. Their chemistry felt natural, and the story shines brightest in its quiet, tender moments: twinkling lights, unexpected connections, and the soft reminders of what this time of year is really about.
While some pacing moments felt a little rushed and a few plot beats were predictable, the overall charm absolutely makes up for it. It’s a feel-good, festive read perfect for anyone who wants a lighter romance to slide them into the holiday season.
If you love small towns, cozy atmospheres, and a holiday romance with heart, this one is worth picking up! 🎄💫
Plot: Dash Pine is one of Hollywood's hottest actors who is need of some positive PR. After his A-list co-star bails on their fake holiday romance in Mistletoe Mountain, in walks local florist Ivy Jolly. Ivy isn't normally one to take center stage, but she reluctantly agrees to a pretend relationship after deciding she needed to take a risk by stepping outside her comfort zone. But their chemistry is undeniable and soon the fake becomes real. But after Dash's mother arrives in town, can they take their relationship to the next level?
My Thoughts: This holiday romance had it all--swoon-worthy chemistry, cozy cabin in the snow, festive holiday activities, even fun holiday names like Dash, Ivy, Merry, and Holly. Although there were some cheesy moments, this was a fun read that is perfect for the holidays. It had all my favorite tropes like fake dating, small town, and found family. If you are looking for a love story that will keep you smiling, this is the one!
What to Expect: --fake dating --small town --closed door romance --opposites attract --found family
I have recently read several romance books that have a similar trope, fake romance. This one is by far the best I have read. Part of that is because I love Melissa Miller’s writing style and her character development. Everything in this story fits together perfectly. Ivy and Dash connect so well together. Everything seems to be working toward a future relationship until something happens that causes it to fall apart. I hate spoilers, but let’s just say I was smiling at the end. The Jolly family and the town of Mistletoe Mountain contributed to my enjoyment of this book. The people, the shops, the activities in the town, the atmosphere, all make me want to be a part of the setting. In reading the book, I felt as though I participated right along with the characters in the story.
One thing I absolutely adore about Melissa's writing is that she makes it so easy to fall in love with her characters and the wonderful world she builds...and this book is no exception. I loved her previous holiday romance in 2025 and was glad to have another shot to read this one. Dash and Ivy are super lovely together and I appreciate the opposites attract element in this book. They can't be more different but at the same time, kind of fit well with each other. The closed-door romance also makes the entire story more wholesome and satisfying. All in all, The Christmas Arrangement will definitely light up your holidays and I'm certain you'll be enchanted by Melissa's writing!
***Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
I absolutely flew through this book. The Christmas Arrangement is exactly what I want in a holiday romcom. It is short, sweet, full of that cozy small town charm and holiday magic. The fake dating trope can be hit or miss for me, but make it between a famous actor and a small town florist? Immediate yes.
I adored the Jolly family. Their warmth, teasing, and unconditional love made the story feel so alive. The banter had me smiling nonstop, and the chemistry between the leads was perfect. It is closed door but still has that spark, realistic without losing the swoony moments.
This one hits that perfect middle ground. Sweet but not cringey, funny without being over the top, romantic but still grounded. If you love authors like Juliana Smith or Annabel Monaghan, this will be right up your alley.
I really tried to enjoy this one but it was just way too cheesy for me. The overly Christmas names & phrases (Dasher Pine, Ivy, Holly, Merry, Noelle, and Nick Jolly, “holy sugarplums”, etc) and the extreme instant love connection didn’t work for me, especially with very little emotional depth between the characters. I liked the premise of fake dating for PR between a movie star and a small town girl but this one was just not for me.
Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I devoured this book in less than 36 hours! The chemistry between Ivy and Dash is so sweet and undeniable. The whole holiday channel rom-com equation was a success! I highly recommend this book as a cozy socks, warm cuppa, cuddled-up-for-the-weekend holiday read - cause you won't have time to do anything else once their story drags you in!
This was a cute holiday read! This book does a really nice job of encapsulating the Christmas spirit. I loved Ivy and Dash and thought their relationship was so cute! This was a fun, fast paced read. If you’re looking to add to your holiday tbr, I would recommend this one!
Thank you Hambright PR for the advanced copy! All opinions are my own.
I loved the depth of this novel. It goes beyond just a simple fake relationship, but dives into family dynamics and internal struggles. It's also written in a whimsical style where the characters have holiday-themed names, like Dash. I had a lot of fun reading this!
Better than the Hallmark Channel! It hits all the points of a good Christmas story without quite going over the edge into corny. This is my third visit to Mistletoe Mountain and it’s become something of a Christmas tradition. This year’s story did not disappoint and I especially appreciated the complications that Dash’s mother introduced. It took the edge off the sweetness and somehow made the end more rewarding.
It’s the perfect blend of swoon-worthy romance, heartfelt connection, and just enough drama to keep the pages turning. If you’re in the mood for a romantic read that leaves you smiling (and maybe a little emotional), this one is a must.
“The Christmas Arrangement" by Melissa F. Miller is a star that beautifully continues the beloved series. This sweet romance is perfectly crafted with a delightful fake dating trope that tugs at your heartstrings while keeping you thoroughly entertained.
Set in a charming small town, the vivid descriptions make you feel as though you're walking through snow-dusted streets adorned with twinkling lights. The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, and their evolving relationship feels authentic and heartfelt. The fake dating premise adds an extra layer of excitement and warmth, making their journey toward love all the more engaging.
Melissa F. Miller blends humor, heartfelt moments, and a dash of festive magic, creating an uplifting story that’s impossible to put down. The happy ending is as satisfying as it is heartwarming, leaving readers with a smile long after the last page.
If you’re looking for a cozy, feel-good holiday read with an awesome setting and a romance that blossoms beautifully against the backdrop of the season, "The Christmas Arrangement" is the perfect choice!
Thank you HambrightPR and Melissa F. Miller for the eARC of The Christmas Arrangement, book 3 in the Mistletoe Mountain Series.
Adorable small town, check. Sisters, check. Fake dating, check. Celebrity fake dating, double check. This was such a cozy, Christmas romance and I had the best time reading it. The cuteness and giggles were nonstop and there were even a few laugh out loud moments. Ivy and Dash are an adorable couple who have amazing chemistry, and even though everything happens in a short amount of time, it felt believable.
I love small town romances because of that tight knit, welcoming community and this book delivers all the good feels. If you need a pick me up, this is a sweet closed door romance that is legitimately a Christmas Hallmark movie in book form. The Christmas and winter nods are so fun. I mean Dash is literally short for Dasher and the main character is named Ivy Jolly and I love it! I ate this up and definitely want to read the other books in the series.
I had so much fun with this one! It’s witty, heartwarming, and exactly the kind of holiday rom-com that makes you smile from page one. The fake dating trope is one of my absolute weaknesses, and pairing a small-town florist with a charming, chaotic actor? Instant yes ! Dash and Ivy’s chemistry is chef’s kiss. Their connection sparked immediately, but it wasn’t just fluff, it had depth. Dash will make you swoon, Ivy will make you root for her with every page turn, and together they balance each other perfectly. I loved how the staged “publicity moments” slowly revealed their real feelings. The story is short, cozy, and packed with small-town charm. The humor felt natural, the romance grounded, and the swoony moments perfectly timed.
This one might be cheesy and I absolutely loved it. It’s the perfect holiday escape ! Thanks a lot to @hambright_pr and @melissafmillerbooks for this ARC !
The Christmas Arrangement has it all… fake dating, celebrity in need of a reputation reboot, family with the most Christmas-y names, picturesque Vermont small town setting, family drama, sweet meet-cute, only one bed, kisses only! Perfect quick Christmas read.
Dash, once a child actor, now wants to be taken seriously for his acting skills and after some bad publicity ends up in Mistletoe Mountain with a plan to help out his image. Ivy is the florist hired to make the perfect setting for Dash’s public announcement about dating a fellow celebrity - who decides to not show up. Dash still needs to repair his image and Ivy wants to show Dash what a true Christmas looks like… cue the small town Christmas magic!
Thank you HambrightPR and Mellisa F Miller for the gifted copy of this book.
Dash is trying to restore his reputation after a run in with the paparazzi. But when his PR plan of fake dating another actress falls through in walks Ivy Jolly, Mistletoe Mountains local florist. Will they be able to convince the press they’re fake dating when they’ve only known each other a few hours?
I really enjoyed this one! It was such a cute and fun holiday read! Ivy and Dash were such an adorable couple and I loved reading about them. Their story was so fun and cute!
If you love a faking dating trope with a celebrity/girl next door at Christmas time then I highly recommend this one!
The Jolly family and Mistletoe Mountain are back bringing swoons, sighs and plenty of laughs!!
Each year I look forward to the next book in this series and am never disappointed. Melissa F. Miller has brought the Jolly family and community to life again in a fabulous book.
Dash, an actor, has shown up with a plan and a quick getaway. Then our sweet florist Ivy, who never takes risks and doesn’t want to be the center of attention meets Dash and her simple life goes haywire.
I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down. Snuggle up and join the Misletoe Mountain community for lots of Christmas joy! This is a series I’ll enjoy reading over and over.
As an avid follower of Melissa F. Miller’s work, I was thrilled to dive into The Christmas Arrangement: Mistletoe Mountain. This delightful holiday romance captures the magic of small-town charm, blending humor, warmth, and a touch of festive cheer.
The story follows Dash Pine, a Hollywood actor, and Ivy Jolly, a local florist, as they navigate a pretend romance that quickly becomes something more. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and Melissa Miller’s signature storytelling shines through. While Ivy’s sister, Merry, reminds Ivy that life is not a Hallmark Movie, this book sure resembles one.
Having read all of Miller’s books, I can confidently say that this one beautifully complements her body of work. It’s a heartwarming addition that fans will adore, and it’s perfect for anyone looking for a cozy, romantic read this holiday season.
This was a short but really cute holiday themed read. Mistletoe Mountain seems like the coziest and most romantic small town that you’d find in a Hallmark movie. I thought Ivy and Dash were really cute together. The fake dating trope always adds a bit of excitement to the story and it’s one of my favorite tropes so it was nice to read another story with that aspect. The chemistry between the two characters was undeniable and they just seems to fit together perfectly. This story was heartwarming, humorous and will get you into the festive mood.
The third installment to the Mistletoe Mountain series did not disappoint. Mistletoe Mountain does Christmas right and this third book thrusts quiet Ivy into the spotlight with a “fake romance” with a Hollywood bad-boy heartthrob! Twists and turns abound with some touching undertones of finding family and finding one’s voice, and choosing honesty over fear. One of my favorite authors has done it again, just in time for the holidays.
Lovely little Christmas romance that digs a little deeper than the typical mixed signals that happen in stories like this. I would enjoy spending Christmas at the Inn, except for the cold!.
❄️The Christmas Arrangement by Melissa F. Miller❄️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❄️ Hollywood star Dash Pine arrives in Mistletoe Mountain, Vermont for one reason, to save his career. A messy, self-inflicted evening of bad choices has backed him into a PR stunt meant to repair his image…but things go hilariously off-script.
🌹Enter Ivy, owner of Blooms by Ivy, who becomes “Plan B” after Dash’s publicity plan goes sideways. Their unexpected encounter truly is one for the books. What Dash never anticipates is discovering the one thing he’s been missing all along.
🫶🏻 This is a cozy, feel-good Christmas read in every sense. I connected instantly with Dash and Ivy. The charm of Mistletoe Mountain and the Jolly family made the pages fly. Melissa Miller throws in a twist that I did not see developing the way it did. I wasn’t sure how I felt at first, but as Melissa writes in her “Note From the Author,” “trust the process.” And wow… The way everything came together near the end had me in the happiest, warmest tears.
✨ Dash and Ivy’s story is the perfect holiday read: quick, heartfelt, magical, and brimming with the spirit of the season. And the Jolly family tradition? Perfection.✨
“Every night at dinner, we share three things: something we’re grateful for, something we regret, and something we’re going to do to make tomorrow better.”
Christmas Arrangement is the book I didn’t know I needed to read this year. 🎄❤️
💫 Thank you to Hambright PR and Melissa F. Miller for the ARC.
This book felt like stepping straight into a snow globe, cozy, sweet, and full of holiday charm. The Christmas Arrangement is part of the Mistletoe Mountain series, but it absolutely holds its own as a standalone. It’s light and festive, but also sprinkled with heartfelt moments that give the story real warmth.
Dash and Ivy are an absolute delight together. They’re total opposites, yet somehow they click in the best possible way. Their connection comes through so naturally, and the slow build of their feelings gave me all the warm fuzzies. Dash is pure swoon material, and Ivy’s personality shines brighter with every chapter.
The town of Mistletoe Mountain steals the show, too, from the quirky locals to the charming shops; it feels like the kind of place you'd want to spend the holidays. The Jolly family adds even more heart, creating that perfect small-town, everybody-knows-everybody vibe that makes Christmas stories feel magical.
What I loved most was how the story balances comfort and depth. There are laugh-out-loud moments, adorable holiday traditions, and sweet, romantic scenes. Still, there’s also growth, vulnerability, and a reminder of how important it is to stand up for what (and who) you care about.
It’s the kind of book that feels like a warm blanket on a cold night.
Perfect if you love: ✨ Opposites attract ✨ Cozy holiday romances ✨ Small-town charm ✨ Closed-door chemistry ✨ Feel-good storytelling ✨ A sprinkle of mystery ✨ Heartwarming, Hallmark-movie vibes
Thank you so much @hambright_pr and @MelissaFMiller for the #gifted e-ARC!